The catalyst is a state environmental clean air program that offers municipalities grants to cover 25 percent of the price of replacing older diesel equipment with new models that burn the fuel more efficiently and causes far less pollution, Town Manager Garry Bruback said Friday.

"We're applying for the grant from the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Deadline is Dec. 14. We will be in competition for funds but we hope we receive it," he said.

Earlier this week, the town council approved the town's application for the grant. Council members asked how the town would cover its $150,000 share of the purchase. Brumback told them the town will have sufficient money from unexpected grants earlier this fiscal year and from savings on refinanced bonds. If necessary, some money could also be used from the town's surplus funds, he said.